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DEKRA supports Swedish Infrastructure Manager Trafikverket in the development of ERTMS
Sep 03, 2021
The European Railway Traffic Management System (ERTMS) is currently being rolled out in a large number of European countries. Implementation of these new systems is a complex process, which will often lead to the replacement of a large amount of train signalling systems. Each wayside or on-board system must be tested individually and in combination. In Sweden, rail infrastructure manager Trafikverket has started the process of developing a train signalling system in compliance with generic European specifications that will enable smooth rail traffic across country borders. As a Notified Body (NoBo), Assessment Body (AsBo) and Independent Safety Assessor (ISA), DEKRA has been contracted to support Trafikverket in the complete process of assessment: from the definition of necessary functionalities to the testing and implementation of the new system.
Rail expertise
DEKRA has an experienced team for the specification, organization, and implementation of train-track integration tests that are a part of the certification process for components, vehicles, or infrastructure. Unfortunately, the application of certified and approved ERTMS/ETCS components generally does not always provide a 100% guarantee that the interaction between rail vehicle and infrastructure will result in a working rail traffic system. This is why DEKRA has developed detailed test scenarios and set up a complete, practical, and efficient test program. Our in-house ERTMS experts carry out the test program in close collaboration with suppliers and infrastructure manager. These types of tests are requirement not only for newly developed ERTMS systems or components in rail vehicles and infrastructure, but also when these systems are renewed or updated.
Coherence of systems and components
In Sweden, two independent suppliers are currently working on the development of ERTMS that will at some point lead to the replacement of the current signalling systems. Two trial operation tracks have been set up to gather experience and further development of the systems. When these systems have been thoroughly tested, they can be implemented throughout Sweden. When the implementation starts, new and old systems and components, which are also from different suppliers have to work together. At that point, systems and components from a large number of different suppliers will be brought together. This coherence of the systems is well specified, but does call for the necessary attention. DEKRA is the reliable partner that offers know-how and practical support during both integration and implementation. We take care of the certification of the various parts and systems; whether it is the entire vehicle, the entire track, or the entire system that needs to be reworked, but also when an upgrade of software and/or hardware is due.
Field testing possible in laboratory?
The certification of a complete onboard system is the result of a highly extensive series of tests. DEKRA is exploring the possibilities for carrying out existing field tests in laboratory environments more often. Carrying out tests in laboratories is less expensive, reduces the unavailability of infrastructure, and ensures that night work is needed less often. And, of course, it is safer and easier from a logistics point of view.
In cases where an existing train is being recertified and the onboard ERTMS unit is given a hardware and software upgrade, the testing program can be more limited, depending on the extent of the upgrade. DEKRA currently carries out tests that enable subsequent certification of the train and the software.
Services
We offer the following services on the basis of our extensive knowledge of European and national laws and regulations, our wide-ranging experience in this field and our in-house expertise in testing ERTMS:
Developing test specifications and test programs for field and/or laboratory tests
Planning (logistics, rolling stock and track possessions, route planning, time tables)